The Rotherham Rep is set to entertain audiences this September with their upcoming performance of When the Wind Blows – a poignant yet darkly comedic play by The Snowman author Raymond Briggs.
See it at Rotherham Civic Theatre from Tuesday 17th to Friday 20th September. Curtain up 7.30pm. Tickets £10.00, £8.00 concessions.
When the Wind Blows tells the story of Jim and Hilda Bloggs, an elderly couple living in rural England who naively prepare for a nuclear war with the same diligence they felt during the blitz. Their earnest and often humorous misunderstandings about modern warfare and civil defence create a stark contrast to the grim reality of their situation.
Raymond Briggs first published When the Wind Blows in 1982. Radio and stage adaptations were soon produced, followed in 1986 by a successful animation for which David Bowie sang the theme.
Spotlight on Jim and Hilda
Jim is played by Roger Hazelwood, a dedicated figure in local theatre for over 55 years, acting, producing and directing.
Roger said: “When The Wind Blows is a beautifully written play, where poor old Jim Bloggs sincerely believes he is abreast of all the scientific advances of modern warfare, even if his pronunciation leaves something to be desired. He’s a lovely, well-intentioned chap who clearly loves his wife dearly.”
The role of Hilda is performed by Trish Lister, a highly valued member of Rotherham Rep since 1965. Trish’s dedication and contributions to the Rotherham Rep were recognised when she was honoured with the role of President.
Now, she is thrilled to be taking on the role of Hilda. Trish added: “Undeniably, playing Hilda in When the Wind Blows is a challenge, but I have been quite amazed at my capacity to learn lines when I thought those days were well and truly behind me!”
Directors’ comments
The Rep’s Dramatic Director and play co-director, Richard Wilshaw, said: “The threat of nuclear war was very real as I was growing up, with the superpowers becoming increasingly militant. Among the many films made at the time, When the Wind Blows was unique. It featured quirky English humour mixed with pathos, presented through the clever drawings of Raymond Briggs.
“I remember fondly the animated version and the radio play. I wasn’t familiar with the play version. The challenge was to capture the magic of the animation and transpose it to the civic stage. Through sound, video, and special effects, and the brilliant characters created by Trish and Roger, I believe we have created something special.”
Producer and play co-director, Mark Oakley, is no stranger to the themes of the show, having previously served onboard all four of the UK’s current nuclear deterrent submarines during his time in the Royal Navy.
Mark said: “I first read When the Wind Blows during a deterrent patrol on HMS Victorious in the late nineties, I checked it out of the small on-board library. I was captivated by the artwork and was rooting for the characters throughout.”
Celebrating a centenary of theatrical excellence
As The Rotherham Rep approaches its 100th anniversary in 2026, the team continue to invest in their future by employing new technical methods to enhance their productions. Last year’s sell-out performances of A Christmas Carol combined traditional set, video projection, complex sound and lighting effects, as well including a live choir on stage.
The Rotherham Rep is always eager to welcome new members, on stage and behind the scenes. To learn more about joining the Rep, please contact the Dramatic Director, Richard Wishaw, by their social media accounts or email at dramatic-director@rotherham-rep.co.uk.
Don’t miss the chance to see When the Wind Blows and experience a unique blend of comedy, drama, and social commentary brought to life by talented local performers.